News & Events

Federal employees who are not working due to the shutdown furlough may be eligible for Unemployment Benefits in Massachusetts (also called UI benefits). However, it is important to note that federal employees will be responsible to repay the UI benefits if Congress approves retroactive pay for the furlough period...

Guidance for Federal Employees Facing Financial Insecurity

The Boston Bar Lawyer Referral Service will be closely monitoring the government shutdown, how it will affect federal government employees, particularly those in Massachusetts, and will continue to post relevant resources and guidance. If you have any questions at all, please connect with one of our intake staff at 617-742-0625, and we will connect you to resources and referrals for legal assistance....

Slip & Fall Accidents on Snow & Ice: When To Call a Lawyer

Slip and fall accidents could result in various types of injuries, including abrasions, fractures, and concussions, and in rare instances very serious injuries. If you have had a slip and fall accident on someone else’s property in Massachusetts, you could be eligible to obtain compensation...

Staying Warm this Winter

As the temperature continues to drop, it is important to know your rights surrounding home heating. If you are a tenant, your landlord must provide you with basic standards to remain comfortable during the cold season. The landlord must...

Greater Boston Legal Services Settlement with Boston Public Schools Will Reduce School Exclusion

Greater Boston Legal Services (GBLS) announced that it has settled a complaint on behalf of three clients against Boston Public Schools (BPS) with regards to unlawful suspensions. As a result, Boston Public Schools has agreed to amend its school discipline policies to...

Consumer Protection Tips for Successful Holiday Shopping:

As the holiday season approaches, many shoppers are anxious about getting the best deals on gifts while remaining safe and protected against deceptive business practices. Below are some tips to help guarantee a successful holiday shopping trip this winter...

Understanding Marijuana Laws in MA:

On the horizon of recreational marijuana sales in Massachusetts, it is important to acknowledge that limitations still exist to the use of marijuana and cannabis products. Here are some basics about the law...

Buying a used car?

Buying a car can be a significant decision, and especially if you are purchasing a used car, you should know your rights as a consumer. If there are defects that may impair safety and the ability to properly drive, you may be eligible for different types of recourse under Massachusetts Lemon Laws...

New: Electronic Filing of Small Claims Cases

Do you need to file a small claim? Good news- you may be able to save a trip to the courthouse! The Massachusetts Trial Court recently introduced an online interview process, known as “Guide & File,” to allow anyone with a small claim to complete the process from a computer and electronically submit documentation to the court...

Pregnant at work?

Being pregnant while at work isn’t always easy, and it’s best to know your rights under the law. If you are pregnant, or are planning on becoming pregnant soon, here is some information to make yourself aware of your civil rights and how you can best exercise them in the workplace...

Know Your Rights: Back to School & Free Speech

As students are settling back into the Fall school routine, it’s important to be aware of what constitutional rights exist on school property. Whether or not your public school can punish you for speaking out depends entirely on when, where, and how you choose to express yourself...

BBA Releases Multilingual Principles Concerning Immigration Policy

The Boston Bar Association (BBA) has established a set of four principles that define its core values on immigration policy. To express its respect for and solidarity with immigrant communities in Massachusetts and to guide...

Attorney General’s Office vs. American Military University

In the latest action against online, for-profit schools targeting veterans, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office recently announced a $270,000 settlement with the American Military University....

First Time Home-Buyer?

Buying a home can be an intimidating task for many, often leaving first-time homebuyers feeling lost in the process of navigating mortgages, education, and assistance. If you are looking for guidance...

What vacation benefits do Massachusetts employees have?

In the midst of this recent summer heat wave, many employees are itching to take their vacation time and soak up the sun with friends and family. However, the laws surrounding vacation benefits in Massachusetts can be confusing...

What Public Benefits are Available to Immigrants?

Today, it can be difficult to understand what public assistance is available to immigrants entering and living in the United States. Here is some guidance on benefits and resources available to immigrants that aim to promote economic...

The Boston Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service (“BBA LRS”) provides information on this website as a service to its users and our members. The BBA LRS is not a law firm and does not represent clients in any way. Although the information on this site is about legal issues and informational services it is not legal advice. Use of this website does not in any way create a lawyer-client relationship.